We enjoyed a fun night on Thursday in the Side Door, listening to three young jazz talents playing alongside some old pros. Duke Ellington veterans John Lamb and Buster Cooper, backed by the great drummer Ron Gregg, shared the stage with Danny Stagnitta (alto sax), his brother, Tony (trumpet), and Aaron Lehrain (piano).
It was a night of some swing and some hard-bop – featuring tunes by Miles Davis. Duke Ellington, and Art Blakey. Buster soloed on a beautiful version of Hoagy Carmichael’s “The Nearness of You.” As a piano player I was really impressed with Aaron, who looked like a teenager but played with the quiet confidence of a jazz veteran.
Here are some shots from the night by my old Tribune and Times buddy, Rossie Newson.
Buster with the boys!
John Lamb
Ron Gregg on drums
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